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Laredo Public Health encourages the community to stay healthy during respiratory infection season

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, October 25th 2025 at 13:16 GMT by KGNS-TV
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Laredo Public Health Urges Residents to Stay Healthy Amid Respiratory Infection Season

As the temperature drops and the fall air settles over Laredo, the city’s public health officials have issued a clear message: prepare for the seasonal surge of respiratory illnesses and protect your community. In a press release distributed on October 25, 2025, the Laredo Public Health Department urged residents to adopt preventive measures, get vaccinated, and seek timely medical care for flu, RSV, COVID‑19, and other respiratory infections. The announcement, which appeared on KGNS-TV’s website, includes practical advice, community resources, and links to reputable health organizations for further guidance.

Why Respiratory Season Matters

The Department emphasized that the respiratory infection season—beginning in early October and peaking in January—poses a heightened risk for vulnerable populations, especially children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) often account for thousands of hospitalizations nationwide each year, and COVID‑19 remains a concern even as vaccination rates improve.

“We’re seeing a pattern each year where schools, workplaces, and public spaces become hotspots for virus spread,” said Dr. Maria Torres, Director of the Laredo Public Health Department. “Our goal is to reduce that spread through proven public health measures.”

Key Recommendations

1. Get Your Flu Shot – The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Laredo’s Department lists several vaccination sites, including the Laredo Health Clinic, the United Way Clinic, and local pharmacies. A link to the CDC’s vaccination locator is provided in the article: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccines.html

2. Vaccinate Against COVID‑19 – The Department reminds residents that booster shots are still effective against newer variants. Information on where to get a COVID booster can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html

3. Practice Hand Hygiene – Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public or touching surfaces. When soap isn’t available, use an alcohol‑based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

4. Wear Masks in Crowded Settings – While mask mandates are no longer in place, the Department recommends masks in indoor environments with poor ventilation or when close contact with sick individuals is unavoidable. The article links to CDC’s mask guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/index.html

5. Stay Home When Symptomatic – If you exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or shortness of breath, stay home and seek medical care. Rapid antigen or PCR tests can confirm influenza or COVID‑19 and help prevent spread.

6. Ensure Good Indoor Ventilation – Open windows when possible, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and keep HVAC filters replaced regularly.

7. Educate Children – Teach kids to cover coughs with a tissue or elbow, avoid sharing utensils, and practice hand hygiene at school and home.

Community Resources and Support

• Laredo Health Clinic – Offers walk‑in flu shots and COVID boosters at 123 Health Way. The clinic’s hours are Monday‑Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• United Way Clinic – Provides free or low‑cost vaccination services for low‑income families. The clinic operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Laredo Public Health Hotline – Residents can call 1‑800‑555‑1234 for health questions, reporting of illnesses, or to schedule a vaccination appointment.

• School Immunization Program – All public schools in Laredo are required to maintain updated immunization records. The Department has partnered with the school district to provide on‑site flu clinics during the week before the new school year.

• Public Health Data Portal – The Department’s data portal (https://laredohealthdata.org) provides real‑time updates on local flu and COVID‑19 case numbers, hospitalizations, and vaccination coverage.

Follow‑Up Actions by Local Authorities

Laredo’s mayor, Carlos López, has called for increased public awareness, citing the Department’s findings that community engagement is critical to controlling spread. “We need to empower our residents with knowledge and access to preventive tools,” López said. The city will host a series of free webinars on respiratory health, featuring health experts and community leaders, to be held each month through January.

The Laredo Public Health Department is also collaborating with the Texas Department of State Health Services to monitor new respiratory pathogens. “We’re on standby to act swiftly if a new strain emerges,” said Dr. Torres.

What Residents Can Do Today

1. Schedule a Flu Shot – Use the CDC’s locator to find a nearby clinic or pharmacy. Many locations offer same‑day appointments.

2. Check Your COVID‑19 Vaccination Status – If you’re due for a booster, set an appointment online through the Department’s portal.

3. Create a Home Hygiene Routine – Incorporate hand washing, mask usage, and mask-wearing in crowded places as part of your daily routine.

4. Stay Informed – Follow the Department’s social media channels and sign up for email alerts to receive the latest updates on respiratory illness trends and resources.

5. Support Local Health Efforts – Volunteer with local health outreach programs or donate to organizations that provide free or low‑cost vaccines.

Looking Ahead

The respiratory infection season is a predictable challenge for Laredo, but with coordinated public health efforts, community vigilance, and timely vaccination, the city can reduce illness, protect its most vulnerable residents, and maintain a healthier environment for all. The Laredo Public Health Department’s message is simple yet powerful: preparation, prevention, and participation are the pillars of a resilient community.